newbie needing advice please

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McNyat

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Name
Ciaran
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Hello all, I am currently trying to decide on a new (and my first) dslr and after buying a few magazines and reading various reviews on the net I am currently veering towards either a Cannon 50D or a 550D and can't decide. Based on the following I would really appreciate some experienced advice.

I have always had an interest in photography and have until now just had small compacts from Sony.I have created images on canvas for my home and since ten for various friends and family. The types of photos that I like to shoot are portrait, landscape and maybe even sports (but to a lesser degree).

Am I correct in thinking that the 50D is a better camera than the 550D, even though it is alot older and feel that it would be the better investment. I believe it to be of a better build quality. What would be the main advantages of each camera be when compared to the other?

I would also like to take up an on-line home course to develop more skills at a pace that suits my already fairly hectic lifestyle or even a good book. Does anyone have any suggestions?
 
Suppose whether or not you want video capability would be a major deciding factor

I have had a 500D and a 40D which is a similar pairing and prefer the latter for its more solid build. Sure the smaller bodies can take bit of a beating, but I don't like having to wrap things in cotton wool
 
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Hi Ciaran

As above really and have you had a hold of the bodies, the 50D is a bigger (and I think slightly heavier) body than the 550D. If you can, try to have a hold of / play with them both and see if you have a preferrance then.

Do you need / want video function, as this could be the deciding factor ?

What is your budget and what are you wanting to shoot - do you want a zoom lens or a Macro lens, if you got the 50D, would there be monies in the budget for other lenses ?

Lots of decisions to make, hope this is of some help, but .....

Good luck with your search and enjoy it :thumbs:
 
When I was looking for my first DSLR it was a choice between the new 40D and the 400/350 something like that or going with the Nikon route. Between the two Canon's I definitely preferred the 40D and it was a close call between that and the Nikon I eventually chose. I doubt you will be unhappy with either but getting the "next step up" camera will feel that bit better. Look at the number of people who upgrade!
 
I think you need to decide if you want video or not and if you do does the type of video offered on a DSLR fit youir needs.
The build of the 50D is better than a 550 but is heavier, as above get down to a dealers and hold them both and see the spec for both and decide which suits your needs.
Welcome to a great hobby.
 
Me again,
I have been to a local store and have swayed towards the 500d as it is cheaper than the 550d. However I have seen the Nikkon d5000 for £200 less. I have since learnd that a colleague has similar lens' to suit Nikkon to the ones that the company owns and so could borrow those if req. With regards to the 2nd hand option something insid eis teel me not to buy what could potentially be trouble and only to save a 'few' quid.

What do you nice folk think about the d5000 against the 500d (or still considering the 550d). Would the extra monies be worth it?

(Have decided against the 50d based on size btw)

Thanks
 
Sorry, forgot to mention that I would use the savings to buy a better lens. Is this the correct thing to do?
 
Still thinking about it.:shrug:
On further investigation another friend has suggested the 1000d as opposed to the above and then putting the extra cash towards a better lens an external flash and a tripod.
Would I notice massive differences in IQ with this option as opposed to the above options?
Just want to make a decision and get up and running and all advice greatly appreciated at this point.:rules:
 
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